Sydney, Nova Scotia, is the gateway to the world-famous Cape Breton Island, one of North America’s most beautiful islands. It is home to the famous Cabot Trail, one of the top scenic roads in Canada, making it an extraordinary starting point to explore the rugged countryside and coastline.
Best things to do in Sydney Nova Scotia
Here are the top things to do in Sydney to make the most out of a quick one-day visit.
The world’s largest fiddle
The world’s largest fiddle is located at the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavillion. The 60-foot fiddle was erected in 2005 to honour the rich Celtic heritage of Cape Breton Island.
Explore 18th-century living at the Cossit House Museum
Cossit House Museum is a designated heritage site. The home is furnished with 18th-century pieces. Museum staff, dressed in period costumes, demonstrate traditional skills like candle-making, lace-making and butter-churning. Learn more about the museum.
If you are planning a trip to explore other incredible travel destinations, don’t miss our suggestions for experiences to last a lifetime. 8 Reasons Why Newfoundland and Labrador Should Be on Your Bucket-list, Top 10 scenic drives in Canada that will leave you in awe, and if you are thinking about cruising to Alaska check out Explore best ports of call Alaska Cruise Guide.
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Take a historic walking tour of Sydney
Take the historic walking tour of Sydney. It starts at the Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion. You can pick up a map before leaving the cruise terminal, or on non-cruise ship days, book a tour with the Old Sydney Society.
Historic Colonial homes in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Many are designated as heritage properties. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Saint George Church
Saint George Church was built in 1785. It is the oldest building in Sydney, Nova Scotia.
The stained glass window of Saint George Church was built in 1785. The church is the oldest building in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Saint George Craft Market
Saint George Hall Craft Market features local Celtic artisans.
The Waterfront District
Sydney Waterfront District features a boardwalk, shops, cafes and buskers.
Sydney Merchant Mariners Memorial
Sydney Merchant Mariners Memorial pays tribute to those who risked their lives in World War I and II. These brave merchant marine sailors travelled the Atlantic on supply ships. Many ships perished in the extremely dangerous waters because of German submarines.
St. Patrick’s Church Museum
St. Patrick’s Church Museum is the oldest standing Roman Catholic church on Cape Breton Island. It was built in 1828.
St. Patrick’s Church Museum was established in 1828 and is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Cape Breton. It is located in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
St. Patrick’s Church Museum was established in 1828 and is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Cape Breton. It is located in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Jost House Museum
Jost House Museum is a Colonial wooden house and the oldest remaining wooden structure of this era in Sydney.
Quick Facts:
- Sydney was founded in 1785.
- It became a city in 1904.
- Sydney is the home to the world’s largest fiddle.
- St. George Church, built in 1785, is the oldest building in Sydney.
- Sydney is the gateway to the world-famous Cape Breton Island and the Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic highways in North America.
We pride ourselves on writing informative articles with interesting facts. Subscribe below to be alerted to the next article as soon as it is published. Please leave any comments, questions or suggestions below.
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Find out more about planning a visit to Nova Scotia. Download a travel guide here.
Learn more about 18th-century life at the Cossit House Museum.
Discover the top shore excursions on Cape Breton Island, port of call Sydney, Nova Scotia.
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About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
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